If you’ve ever read The Village of Butt and found yourself laughing at a line you immediately wanted to un-read but then read again just to make sure it really said that, then you’ve already met our guy. He’s the author. He’s also a walking (and wheeling) miracle.

In 1977, at just 19, he had a promising shot at playing major league baseball for the Pittsburgh Pirates. But a drunk driver had other plans. The accident broke his neck and shattered his future. Doctors said he might never walk again. He disagreed.

After months in a halo brace - equal parts medieval torture device and retro fashion statement - he walked (okay, limped) out of rehab with a cane and a whole lot of grit. He built a life, job by job, often held together with charm, stubbornness, and whatever duct tape the universe would allow.

Through it all, he never gave up. Not on himself, not on others. But now he needs our help.

Age and time haven’t been kind to that rebuilt spine. He walks with crutches or uses a wheelchair depending on the day, and the pain never quite takes a day off. The car he drives is no longer safe. He’s already survived one terrible car crash. There’s no reason to test fate again.

What he needs is a safe, reliable vehicle. Something with an automatic transmission. Something that can fit his wheelchair. Something not from the Jurassic era. A van or SUV would do wonders. But with income that just covers necessities, a new car isn't in the cards right now.

So we’re turning to you. Not for extravagance. Not for luxury. Just for safety, dignity, and the ability to get to the grocery store without risking life and limb.

He's never been one to ask for handouts, but he's also the kind of person who'd give you the shirt off his back, even if it came with a slightly sarcastic monologue about hospital gowns and 1970s medical hardware. He's truly one of the best friends I've ever had, and that's why I am putting this fundraiser together for him.

If his story made you laugh, cry, or just feel a little more human today, please consider donating or sharing. Let’s get this man a ride worthy of the extraordinary road he’s traveled."